World Series of Fighting 9 Picks

World Series of Fighting Welterweight Championship: Steve Carl (c) (21-3) vs. Rousimar Palhares (15-5)

Luke Irwin: This is Carl’s first taste of major gold, and he’s already said he’s scard of Palhares. Rousimar has been on bigger stages though I want him to get his teeth caved in, Carl isn’t the main to do it. Only heavy hitters can keep Palhares at bay, and I think Carl comes out tentative in the first, then tries to win it in the second only to be on the shelf for a year. Palhares via R2 Submission.

World Series of Fighting Bantamweight Championship: Josh Rettinghouse (10-2) vs. Marlon Moraes (12-4-1)

Luke Irwin: Rettinghouse has put together a solid career, and beating Alexis Vila is still quality, but this belt belonged to Marlon Moraes ever since he beat Miguel Torres. Too long of a wait. Moraes via R1 KO.

Welterweight Bout: Josh Burkman (26-10) vs. Tyler Stinson (26-9)

Luke Irwin: This should be a really, really entertaining fight. Both of these guys are seasoned veterans and both have had their shares of entertaining wins and losses. Fun Fact: Both guys have lost via technical submission to Steve Carl. Regardless, I see these guys’ talents matching up perfectly, leading to a controversial decision. Stinson via SD.

Middleweight Bout: Svetlozar Savov (12-4) vs. Yushin Okami (29-8)

Luke Irwin: One of the most despicable releases in UFC history is going to show the world who he is. Thunder has a dominant first and then puts the hammer down in the second. Okami via R2 TKO.

Featherweight Bout: Mike Corey (12-3-1) vs. Shane Kruchten (11-2)

Luke Irwin: Kruchten’s record is fine, but he doesn’t have half of the resume that Corey has. His only loss since 2007 is to Daniel Straus and has beaten some legit fighters. Should be an easy ride. Corey via UD.